Projecting 2026: A Deep Dive into Laos Imports

Import values for Laos showed a strong upward trajectory between 2020 and 2022, peaking at $7.61 billion. Despite a slight contraction to $7.07 billion in 2023, the market remains significantly larger than its 2020 level of $5.01 billion, indicating sustained long-term growth in import demand over the four-year period.

Petroleum ether is the dominant import, valued at $1.25 billion in 2023. Other major imports include occ waste paper ($203.8 million) and non-alcoholic beverages ($203.6 million). The data also highlights significant demand for industrial goods, such as commercial trucks and plasticisers, reflecting diverse infrastructure and consumer needs.

The import market is highly concentrated, with Thailand and China accounting for 43.99% and 31.47% of total shares, respectively. Together, these two neighbors supply over 75% of all imports. Vietnam and the United States follow as secondary partners, though their combined share remains under 8%.

The Dominican Republic leads emerging partners with an exceptional 100% growth rate, followed by Armenia at 53.98%. While Serbia and Panama show lower percentage growth rates, they have achieved significant absolute volume, both exceeding 1 million in last year value. This data highlights a diversifying supplier base with strong momentum from Caribbean and Eurasian markets.